Delicious Kale And Basil Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More

Kale And Basil Pesto — a italian recipe (main course) with 9 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

30

Total Time (min)

4

servings

256

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Delicious Kale And Basil Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 1 cup fresh kale leaves (stems removed)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tsp salt (to taste)
  • 1 tsp black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

5 steps

  1. Prepare the Ingredients

    Wash and dry the kale and basil leaves thoroughly. Remove the stems from the kale.

    Use a salad spinner to remove excess water from the greens.
  2. Toast the Pine Nuts

    In a small pan over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.

    Watch closely to prevent burning.
  3. Blend the Base

    In a food processor, combine the kale, basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

    Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
  4. Add Oil and Seasonings

    While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.

    Adjust the olive oil amount based on how thick you want the pesto.
  5. Finalize the Pesto

    Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Pulse a few more times to combine.

    Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Sugar-Conscious, Kidney-Friendly, Keto-Friendly, Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian. Diet: Low-Carb, Low-Sodium

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your italian meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Garlic bread
🍽️Caesar salad
🍽️Roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Delicious Kale And Basil Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More is a beloved dish from Italian cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 30 minutes, it's a quick and easy option for any day of the week.

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its emphasis on simple, quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each region of Italy has its own distinct culinary traditions, passed down through generations.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 9 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can substitute spinach or arugula for kale for a different flavor.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories200kcal
Total Fat18gg
Sodium150mgmg
Total Carbohydrates5gg
Dietary Fiber2gg
Total Sugars1gg
Protein5gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineItalian